REVIEW FROM SUNDIAL MEDIA GROUP

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A Straight Ahead American Rock Record and the Best From jimi FITZ!

The best art is usually created as a reaction to its influences. It might not be conceived with this in mind, but then, life provides the void and insists that it be filled. After three decades as a performer, promoter, and radio personality, jimi FITZ has seen music (and life) from all sides. A native of the Washington DC area, working his craft over the years between New York, Nashville, and the southern California desert he now calls home, FITZ has played some of the country’s top venues including The Bitter End, Limelight, The Cat Club, The Red Parrot, The Bottom Line, The Cannery, The Exit Inn, and the legendary CBGB’s. In the 80s, he led “Fitz and The New York Band”, and in the 90s, he fronted the alternative group “Baby Bam Boo!”. After a couple of well-received solo efforts and a wealth of experience on which to call, the time is ripe for his latest release, “No Easy Way Out”, co-written with WJ Rene and bassist / guitarist Lewis Richards and produced by FITZ and Richards. While the title is apropos to our current world climate it’s relevant without declaring neither support nor opposition. It’s an offering that provides observation and awareness to an audience that perhaps, is more interested in the changing nuances of life rather than taking sides.

The lead track, the title cut, is an immediate statement. A hard rocker that makes no illusion of what’s to come, it summarizes the collection to follow and provides the narrative that supports each tune individually. “Money” follows, a crunchy belter that opens with a blazing guitar solo from Patrick Bostrom (who also gets a co-writing credit here). The tune is reminiscent of 70's british rock group Slade and modern rockers Jet - but with FITZ’s Johnny Cash-style vocals. “Never Too Late” comes next - a reminder to get straight and be the change you want to see, presented with some clever word play. “Who Are We” is a big gospel-tinged, fist in the air anthem with a stunning vocal choir, guided by Jeri Lynne and exquisite violin playing from Jennifer Argenti. It’s hard not to be reminded of the Talking Heads “Road To Nowhere”. Next up are “Patched In Gold”, another grungy slice of American rock and the steely electropop of "As Long As I’m With You" which has a bit of 80's dark wave sensibility infused with "Smooth" era Santana - guitar courtesy of Mic De La Torre. The second to last track “WORRY” is possibly the most direct song on the record. It’s a sparse, acoustic appeal to let go of those things you can't control and to recognize life's simple values. Closing the album is “Citizens of the Universe” the fan favorite recorded LIVE with the band Penny Unniversity at the beautiful McCallum Theatre.

“No Easy Way Out" is a bold statement and a no holds barred rock record from a man who knows a thing or two. It’s jimi FITZ’s best album and a welcome companion in these times.